Shanghai Shopping: Markets to Malls

Introduction

Shanghai is a shopper’s paradise, offering everything from luxury brands to local handicrafts. This guide covers the best shopping destinations in the city.

Shopping in Shanghai splits into two quite different worlds: the traditional markets where silk, tailor-made qipao and packaged xiaolongbao gift sets are sold, and the modern malls that carry the same brands as anywhere else.

Luxury Shopping

• IFC Mall (Pudong): High-end brands in Lujiazui financial district.
• Plaza 66: Luxury mall on Nanjing Road West with top international brands.
• Kerry Centre: Upscale mall with luxury brands and fine dining.
• Jing’an Kerry Centre: Modern shopping complex with designer stores.

The interesting purchases are the local ones. silk, tailor-made qipao and packaged xiaolongbao gift sets are produced here and sold at a fraction of the price you would pay elsewhere – the only work is finding a reputable seller.

Popular Shopping Streets

• Nanjing Road Pedestrian Street: China’s premier shopping street with department stores and boutiques.
• Huaihai Road: Elegant shopping street with mid-range to luxury brands.
• Sichuan Road: Affordable shopping with local brands.
• Xiafei Road: Historic shopping street in the French Concession.

Nanjing Road and Xintiandi is the practical base for a shopping morning. It concentrates small shops, market stalls and a few established stores within walking distance of each other.

Markets and Bazaars

• AP Plaza (Yuyuan Bazaar): Souvenirs, antiques, and traditional crafts near Yu Garden.
• Qipu Road Clothing Market: Wholesale clothing market with bargain prices.
• Fuxing Road Antique Market: Antiques and collectibles.
• Pudong Flower Market: Fresh flowers and plants at wholesale prices.

Bargaining belongs in the markets, not the shops. Where prices are displayed, they are fixed; where nothing is marked, an opening offer of roughly half is a normal place to begin.

Specialty Shopping

• Tianzifang: Artisan workshops with unique handicrafts and souvenirs.
• M50 Creative Park: Art galleries and design studios.
• Dongtai Road Antique Market: Antiques, curios, and vintage items.
• Shanghai Silk Store: High-quality silk products and custom tailoring.

Outlet Malls

• Foxtown Outlet: Designer brands at discounted prices.
• City Gate Outlet: Popular outlet mall with international brands.
• Shanghai Outlets: Large outlet with many brands.

Shopping Tips

• Bargaining: Expected at markets, not in malls.
• Tax Refund: Some stores offer tax refunds for tourists.
• Payment: Alipay and WeChat Pay widely accepted; bring some cash for markets.
• Shipping: Many shops can ship purchases internationally.

Practical Information

Frequently Asked Questions

Is bargaining expected?

In markets, yes. In shops with marked prices, no.

How do I judge quality?

Compare across several stalls before buying, and be wary of anything presented as an antique at a low price.

Can I get items shipped home?

Many shops will arrange it for bulky purchases. Agree the cost in writing before paying.

Quick Checklist

• Compare prices across three stalls
• Check quality before paying
• Bargain in markets only
• Keep receipts for larger purchases

Last Updated: July 2026